I've shipped mine FedEx in the past. Much cheaper than the $100/segment charges from the airline I was flying. And I didn't have to hassle with it at the airport. You can add insurance on the shipping - mine was only worth a fraction of yours though so I don't know how much that would add to the cost.

I just used a cardboard bike box, which I can usually find out behind the bike stores for free on their delivery days. A hard case would be nice though.